A person commits the criminal offense (crime) of theft—also known as stealing—by unlawfully taking or appropriating the property of another person or entity with the intent to deprive the owner of the property.
Taking or appropriating property is generally unlawful if it is done without the owner's effective consent—for example, if the property was taken by threat, deception, or extortion.
In Nebraska, theft is defined under Nebraska Revised Statute 28-511. A person commits theft if they unlawfully take or exercise control over movable property of another with the intent to deprive them thereof. Theft also includes receiving stolen property, deceiving or extorting the owner to obtain property, or possessing property with knowledge that it was stolen. The severity of the crime and the penalties involved depend on the value of the property stolen. Theft offenses can range from a Class II misdemeanor for property valued at $500 or less, to a Class IIA felony for property valued at $5,000 or more. Additionally, certain types of theft, such as theft by deception or receiving stolen property, have specific provisions under Nebraska law. It is important for individuals accused of theft to consult with an attorney to understand the charges they are facing and the potential legal consequences.